This Is the Difference Between Contouring and Bronzing

Even if you’ve been around the proverbial Beauty Block a few times, bronzing and contouring may still conjure vague, interchangeable notions of dusting or smearing product to magically achieve a dimensional complexion. While it’s true that both add depth and enhancement to a look, “there's a big difference between the two”, says Daniel Martin, Dior Celebrity makeup artist behind the barely-there gorgeousness of celebs like Jessica Alba. “Contouring is about shaping and defining the structure of the face”, he explains, “while bronzing is about warming up the skin where sun would naturally hit.”
Mario Dedivanovik (AKA the master behind Kim K’s signature chiseled looks) adds that contouring creates structure, dimension and symmetry, whereas bronzing adds a natural wash of sun. Daniel Chinchilla, who gives Ariana Grande her glow, adds that contouring can also be used to slim the features.

Though they’re more different than they may appear, bronzing and contouring are by no means mutually exclusive. The trick to not overdoing it is mindful application and pinning down the perfect products for the job.

Contouring works by mimicking natural shadow, so matte is a must. The pros recommend either super matte, cool toned bronzer or a blendable cream. Mario and Chinchilla swear by the KKW sticks, which come in a range of cream-based, blendable shades; Martin loves the super-flattering DiorBlush Sculpt in Beige Contour. To create believable shading, blend product under the cheekbones, crease of the eyes, under the jawline, the temples, and alongside the nose.

For glowy warmth (i.e. bronzing): Opt for products with a bit of shimmer, ideally one shade lighter than the contour shade, explains Martin, who loves Kevyn Aucoin Celestial Bronzing Veil. Bronzers with peachy tones are another super-flattering option, according to Chinchilla, who loves the Guerlain Bronzer in 05 for its peachy-gold undertones.
For the ultimate natural-looking, just-got-back-from-vacay tan, Mario recommends the Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder or the ever-classic Benefit Hoola Bronzer.
To build a believable bronze, dust the highest points of the face: Top of the cheekbones, (lightly) across the forehead, and down the bridge of the nose. Or, Martin’s quick tip: think of bronzer as a warmer version of highlighter, and apply accordingly.

Needless to say, contouring popularity has soared over the past few years at a rate that suggests the bubble will eventually burst — but Mario predicts that it’ll continue to grow as contouring becomes more accessible. Bronzing, on the other hand, has been a steady staple for a reason and, according to virtually any MUA, is a timeless classic. Whatever the fate of contouring may be, one thing’s for certain: contouring and bronzing are the powerhouse duo behind what Chinchilla calls a “Chiseled Glow”, which is always a good look.